Why Prefabricated Roofing Panels (PUF Panels) Are the Future of Construction

What Is a PUF Sandwich Panel?

A sandwich panel is a three-layer construction material that consists of a thermo-insulating core with metal sheets on both sides. Primarily used for external cladding, sandwich panels can be used for walls as well, ceilings, as well as roofs.

Usually, the outer sheet of the panel should be resistant to fluctuating temperatures caused by weather, wind, sun (UV rays), and other physical or chemical effects. The inner sheet on the other hand is not affected by similar factors as the outer sheet but has to be resistant to internal conditions such as chemical gases or condensation.

Prefabricated Wall and Roofing Panels

When selecting wall sandwich panels, customers usually consider factors such as strength and fire resistance whereas, for roofing panels, load-bearing capacity and long life are more relevant. Moreover, since roofing panels need to have air-tight capability, panels with a special profile of external facing in the form of ridges are usually recommended.

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Types of Prefabricated Sandwich Panels

Sandwich panels can be of the following types depending on the core material:

• PUR (polyurethane) or PUF (rigid polyurethane foam)
• PIR (polyisocyanurate)
• Mineral Wool 
• EPS (expanded polystyrene)

These core materials vary based on their thermal insulation, fire resistance, sound insulation, etc. and you can make a choice depending on your construction need. Additionally, the outer surfaces are made of metals including pre-painted galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminium, or zinc.

Why Are PUF Panels Used

PUF-insulated panels have become an attractive choice in modern, modular construction, especially in prefabricated buildings, warehouses, cold rooms, and others.

Here are some of the reasons why PUF panels are the future of construction!

Energy-Saving

The energy efficiency of a sandwich panel depends on its core and the air-tightness of the locks. PUF panels offer high thermal insulation which means they can help maintain ambient or the required temperature inside the construction.  This translates to energy savings!

Sound Insulation Capability

The sandwich structure of PUF panels ensures effective acoustic shielding. Since they don’t let the sound pass through, PUF panels are particularly useful in the construction of theatres, auditoriums and construction near or on highways or busy roads.

Weather-Resistant

PUF panels are anti-corrosive and can withstand extreme weather conditions including winds, rainfall, or snowfall to keep the structure protected. These panels are also low-maintenance and thus can be built in different geographical locations.

Easy-to-Install

PUF insulated sheets are light in weight and are easier to transport and install. Especially, on the construction site, the handling is easy and requires comparatively less manpower for installation. This means savings on labour and resources! Plus, with PUF panels, it is much easier to dismantle, move, or expand the construction. Its reusability thus makes it a sustainable option.

Durability

Since PUF sandwich panels are low-maintenance and weather-resistant, they ensure sturdy and durable structures with a long life.

Some other features that make PUF insulated panels a great choice for construction projects include:

• Reduced cost of construction materials, labour and shipping/transportation
• Quick and hassle-free installation
• Aesthetic appearance 
• Prefabricated, factory-engineered 
• Portable 
• Environment-friendly 
• Relatively dry construction process compared to traditional masonry

Where Are PUF Roofing Panels Used

PUF sandwich panels find applications in the following:

• Warehouses
• Logistic hubs
• Sports facilities
• Cold rooms
• Shopping malls
• Office buildings
• Factory or manufacturing facilities
• Highway hotels, travel cottages, or motels
• Service stations
• Poultry pens
• Vending stations
• Roof-top constructions

 How Are PUF Wall and Roofing Panels Installed

Below are the general steps but can vary depending on the manufacturer and the project requirements.

1. Prefabricated sandwich panels are transported to the site of construction with the required components.

2. The materials are then unloaded with appropriate construction handling equipment.

3. The subframes and secured using beams, purlins and posts.

4. Protective films are removed from the PUF panels.

5. Sandwich panels and subframes are fastened using appropriate fasteners.

6. The joints between the PUF panels are sealed for air and water tightness.

How Is Rinac Innovating Roofing Panels for Modular Construction

Unlike conventional modular construction that requires costly transportation, Rinac’s clean modular construction (CMC) is truly modular and is completely prefabricated and knocked down.

Our PUF sandwich panels are cost-effective, lightweight yet sturdy, easy to maintain and construct, as well as have high-temperature and sound insulation properties and come with the following features:

• Metal laminates made from pre-painted galvanised steel
• Low density of up to 35—40 kg/m³
• Customised finishes of aluminium, plastisol, and stainless steel
• CFC-free and high-temperature insulation

Rinac also offers PIR and FM-approved sandwich panels. To know more about our modular construction solutions including InstaBuild, InstaCeil and CoolTop, get in touch with us today!